Supramolecular three-component amino acid-based hydrogels with superior mechanical strength for controllably promoting nonpathogenic E. coli growth

Abstract

Novel three-component hybrid hydrogels have been constructed by amino acid derivatives, riboflavin and melamine through self-assembly. In the process of gelation, the driving forces are attributed to hydrogen bonding and π–π interaction. These luminescent hydrogels demonstrate excellent mechanical strength (>10⁴ Pa) and low cell toxicity, which have been investigated by means of ultraviolet spectra (UV), fluorescence spectra, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM), rheological experiments and cytotoxicity assay. What's more, these hybrid hydrogels could be used to drive the drug release in a controlled manner and be used for promoting E. coli growth, and they accelerate the growth of E. coli distinctly.